If you are in the middle of a remodeling project, you may find yourself at a loss when it comes to doors. Your contractor may suggest installing certain types depending on whether you are working on a residential or a commercial structure, but that does not mean they are the best choice. With the wide variety of entrances, knobs, and locks on the market today, here are a few key terms you should know before purchasing anything.

Bifold – A door made of sections hinged together to allow it to fold onto itself and out of the way. This type of door is commonly used for an interior closet in residential properties. It can also be made of glass for use as a shower door.

French – A type of entry mainly used as an exterior door for a patio. Commonly used in pairs, a French door is made of panels of glass separated by segments of wood.

Sliding – Another type of patio entrance, it usually features two solid panes of glass side by side with only one having the ability to open.

Pocket – A type of door that saves room by sliding completely into the adjacent wall.

Storm – This is used on the exterior of a home’s front door. It increases ventilation without risk of letting in insects. This entryway is made up entirely of a mesh screen. You often have the choice of removable glass panels behind the screen for durability.

Garage – A door made of horizontal hinged panels created precisely to cover the front of one’s garage.

Cabinet – Usually solid wood, these doors can also be manufactured in glass or metal. They can be used in both bathrooms and kitchens.

Doors provide entryways to homes, garages, sheds, and business. They can be fancy with ornate decorative woodwork, or they can be functional and made of steel. They serve many purposes, but all can be opened and closed either by hand or remote. Made from various materials, including wood, metal and glass, doors can be found all over a home or other structure.
Many swing open and shut, but if there is no room to allow for that swing, pocket or sliding doors can be used. Most doors have knobs and some have corresponding locks. Front doors have knockers, either simple or ornate, that people can use if there is no doorbell.
Home improvement and hardware stores sell a range of residential and commercial doors for anything from cabinets to screened patios. You may have to venture to a specialty shop for shower, dog, or panel doors. Contractors come in handy for those who need doors installed. They can purchase the necessary supplies, then perform the installation or repair of the interior or exterior entryways for closets, sliding glass, bifold, and front doors. Garage door installation is a specialty trade.
Different doors are required during different times of the year, too. Storm doors, for instance, are more durable and are typically used during the colder months. Screens can be put in when the weather turns warm and home owners want to let in a breeze. Doors can be decorative but they also serve a very important function. Doors keep out unwanted visitors, pests, and the harsh weather.
French doors are often desirable for their elegance and beauty. These French entryways originated in the 17th century in, you guessed it, France. The Renaissance period offered more varied architecture ideas, along with art and other mediums.